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Get Ready…It’s Hurricane Season!

The most important thing you can do as hurricane season approaches is to get yourself, your family and your home prepared. By starting early, you’ll avoid the rush at home supply stores, grocery stores and other venues typically crowded and often chaotic when hurricane watches and warnings are issued.

Preparing Makes Sense

How Can I prepare

Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio Station for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS)

Secure any items that can be lifted by wind

Secure windows and doors

Set your freezer and refrigerator to its coldest settings

Turn off propane tank and unplug small appliances

Fill your car gas tank

Have an evacuation plan set

Evacuate immediately if advised by authorities

Keep emergency contact numbers handy

Make arrangements for pets (if you are evacuated- most shelters will not allow pets)

What Supplies Should I Have?

Ample water – At least 3 days worth (One gallon per day, per person)

3 days worth of non – perishable food (don’t forget pets)

Flashlights (avoid candles)

Battery powered radio

Extra batteries

First aid kit

Medications (7 days worth)

Copies of personal documents

Cell phone with chargers

Extra cash – ATM’s may not be working

Insect Repellant

Tools to secure your home

Warm Clothing

Blankets

Camera for photos of damage

What should I do after a Storm?

Listen to NOAA for more updates Only use your phone in emergencies

Stay away from damaged powerlines

Check for spoiled food – when in doubt throw it out

Avoid drinking and preparing food with tap water (can be contaminated)

If you were evacuated, do not return home unless instructed by the authorities

When cleaning, wear protective clothing (avoid areas that can be dangerous)

Follow directions from emergency service personnel and fire response

Avoid operating electric appliances or tools around water

All NOAA Weather Radio stations broadcast on one of seven frequencies in the VHF Public Service band: 162.400 megahertz (MHz), 162.425MHz, 162.450 MHz, 162.475 MHz, 162.500MHz, 162.525 MHz, and 162.550 MHz. While some older weather radio receivers will only have three frequencies (162.400, 162.475 and 162.550), and receiver sold today should be able to pick up stations on any of the seven frequencies.

Consider buying a generator

If you use a portable generator, read and follo all the manufacturers instructions. Be sure to set it up outsied – not in your home or garage – and connect appliances directly to it. Don tot ire your generator directly to your breaker or fuse box, because the power you generate may flow back into power lines and cause injuries.

Designate a meeting place. Choose a location outside your house in case of a household emergency, such as a fire, and one outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return to your house. Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate. If possible, make arrangements to stay with the friend or relative who resides closest to your home and who will not have to evacuate. If a hotel or motel is your final intended destination during an evacuation, make a reservation before you leave. Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.